King Carl leaves Drogba drooling
I wanted to give you a bit of an insight into an event I was at last week. It was the re-opening of a renovated NikeTown in London and they were inviting down as many of their big names as they could.
Didier Drogba, Ashley Cole, Cesc Fabregas and Theo Walcott were all there, along with the likes of Mark Cavendish, Paula Radcliffe and Peetu. A little internet research told me that is from Finland and one of the best snowboarders on the planet.
Also there was the great , who must have one of the heaviest mantelpieces in the universe. He has endless Olympic and World Championship gold medals and was also named as Sportsman of the Century by the International Olympic Commitee.
Personally, I felt I should have been on the shortlist for my enormous cricket-ball bung that took the 'Long Throw' title at Three Bridges Middle School in the early 1990s but no-one on the panel agreed.
When I arrived at my central London destination, there was some serious security going on. Passes had to be worn at all times and I got the feeling from the burly chap on the door that any failure to comply would result in a swift harpoon to the small of the back.
My job was to ask the questions to the gathered superstars on stage and then do an interview for Football Focus with Cesc Fabregas and Theo Walcott. The event was taking place on the ground floor, we set up for our interview on the first floor and the green room was on the second.
In the United Kingdom, footballers are held in quite high regard and the invited audience were very excited about clapping eyes on the likes of Fabregas and Cole. As for the players, they seem to be equally delighted to be in the presence of Lewis.
It was fascinating to see Drogba's body language when he met the American. It was probably similar to the way most people react when they meet the Chelsea striker. Drogba said that Lewis was one of his heroes growing up and remembered being captivated by his
Theo Walcott and Carl Lewis pose for the cameras
The green room was packed with agents as well as the stars themselves and I had to flutter around telling everyone what sort of questions I would be asking their clients and saying hello. As I was approaching Cole, I had to take a slight detour as I spotted that the pre-match food had arrived. I know he is important but briefing a footballer has to come second to a chicken fajita wrap and a fruit kebab.
The stars were also asked to bring a special memento from their sporting career and talk about its significance on stage. Peetu brought his rather smelly lucky gloves but most people went for footwear. Paula Radcliffe had the treads she wore when she broke the world record for the women's marathon, whipped out his Tour de France shoes, while Walcott had the boots he scored his hat-trick against Croatia with him, still minus one of the studs.
I believe I was wearing some long deceased for my cricket ball display but the footwear that really got the footballers going were boots Fabregas had donned in Spain's World Cup final win over the Netherlands. When he pulled them out of his plastic bag, everyone seemed strangely drawn to them, as if they were the Stone of Orthanc. Drogba gave them a tentative jab and Cole stroked them knowingly.
With preparations complete - and the waitress wondering what had happened to the full plate of volovants - we made our way downstairs for the main event. I chatted for about 45 minutes with the athletes about their careers, hopes, dreams and special moments. Many spoke of their excitement about 2012 Olympics in London while Walcott revealed that he has been working on his finishing by studying Drogba - a comment that elicited an affectionate nudge from the Ivorian, who seemed genuinely touched.
Once the official part of the day was over, the assembled journalists and crews departed to various corners of the store for their individual interviews. I dread to think how you would begin to organise something like that but it all seemed to run smoothly. I watched Lewis move swiftly from a TV interview to a chat with the papers and then a photo shoot with Walcott on a running track. , achieved as a 16-year-old, but I still reckon Lewis could burn him off if he wanted to.
Walcott then came over for our interview and we had a chat for a few minutes before Fabregas arrived after having his picture taken on the other side of the store. It worked very well as a dual interview. The Englishman spoke excellently about the need to keep the Spaniard at Arsenal, while Fabregas said the little fella on the wing was in the same league as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
At the end of the interview, I asked them if they were worried about Tottenham, their opponents this weekend. We shall see.
After a 20-minute chat, they were ushered to their next assignment and we were free to pack up and hand our passes back to the big unit at the door. We put that interview out last week so this Saturday we are talking to Younes Kaboul. David James will also give us the inside track from Bristol City, while West Brom's Jerome Thomas has been relaxing with DJ Spoony. We have also got a big interview lined up from Brazil but I cannot say any more about that at the moment.
I am also presenting Final Score on Saturday, so if you want to follow the build-up to both shows you can find me at twitter.com/danwalkerbbc.
This week's themed football team was the Shop XI. If you have a suggestion or any questions about the blog or show, then let me know.
Shop squad suggestions:
Edwin van der Spar
Walmart Poom
Clintons Morrisons
Asdamoah Gyan
Lee Dixons
Marks & Spencer Prior
Ledley Kingdom of Leather
Alessandro Costacutter
House of Frazier Campbell
Hallmark Viduka
Papa Bouba Co-op
JJB Okocha
TK Maxi Rodriguez
Samuel Netto
Matt Holland & Barrett
Finidi George at Asda
Emmanuel Aldibayor
Primarco Van Basten
Sotirios Kyriargos
Jonathan SpectorSavers
Linvoy Primark
Justin Edinburgh Woollen Mill
Welcome comrades. This blog is all about giving you an insight into how Football Focus comes together each week. I do pop up across the ´óÏó´«Ã½'s sporting output so there may be the occasional reference to something other than the beautiful game too.
Have a read and feel free to join in with your comments and questions brothers and sisters.
You can also follow me on .
Page 1 of 2
Comment number 1.
At 18th Nov 2010, tomefccam wrote:It would be great to know Dan, who officially were the fastest footballers. I'm sure the clubs keep records of this, why can't they be published!
I remember reading somewhere that Chris Armstrong was the fastest recorded player in Premiership History, and that David Burrows had the hardest shot. This was years ago obviously, but who would rank highest now.
Surely Walcott for speed if he was running 10.5 aged 16, but James Vaughan was recorded at 11s aged just 14!
Hardest shot? Hitzslsperger?
Alliance and Jack Lester
CJ De Mooi
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Comment number 2.
At 18th Nov 2010, Surreybloke wrote:Multi-referenced blog this week with Lord of the Rings, and various foodstuffs. It was good to see the Arsenal players' interview last Saturday - hopefully Fabregas will retain his keeness to stay at Arsenal for a while yet although I think it is almost inevitable that he will end up at Barcelona sometime in the future. Its probably fortunate that Barcelona aren't too cash-rich right now.
A retail related football team would be Sains-bury.
Bilbo Baggins
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Comment number 3.
At 18th Nov 2010, Ecasino27 wrote:Qaulity Blog
Did you show Radcliffe to where the toilet was or does she not care anymore.
One question, out of all the modern day footballers you have had to interview, who would you most like to go for a pint with?
One more question....who would you least like to go for a pint with?
Always a pleasure
W.G.Grace
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Comment number 4.
At 18th Nov 2010, Surreybloke wrote:Clinton Cards Morrison
John Lewis Buxton
Marlon Kingfisher
WH Tommy Smith
Alvin Martin
Gavin Peacocks
Theo Woolworths (bad)
Det. Sgt. Harriet Makepeace
Complain about this comment (Comment number 4)
Comment number 5.
At 18th Nov 2010, Mikey wrote:Dan do you ever get freebies from these lavish affairs.. apart from the food of course..
Will the question be asked of David James does he regret his decision now to not uproot his family and go for a team of a lower calibre?
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Comment number 6.
At 18th Nov 2010, MyVoiceinYrHead wrote:I'm sure Nike's PR dept will love you for this. But I guess Theo and Fab have busy schedules.
I doubt the Athletes chose their Nike footwear by accident either. But I digress,
Do you really believe Wallcott will become a striker?
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Comment number 7.
At 18th Nov 2010, OrcKIng wrote:Fastest footballer ever has to be George McNeill, ex of Hibs, Morton & Stirling Albion. Because of previously playing sport professionally he was never allowed to run at the Olympics. In 1972 he beat Olympic champions et al to win the World Professional Sprint title.
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Comment number 8.
At 18th Nov 2010, Tommy Fleming wrote:I'll go with former Brazilian centre-back 'Aldi -ar'!
Fred Flinstone...
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Comment number 9.
At 18th Nov 2010, SouthernForestFan wrote:Great blog!
It's nice to see role models/athletes (in particular footballers) acting like star struck kids! I especially liked the bit about Fabregas' world cup boots and the other players wanting to touch them!
I don't know what it is with Drogba because I used to detest him, but over the last season or two, I've started to think he's a decent bloke who is a real human...
I would be interested to know in an interview between Fabregas and Walcott, what their contrasting opinions are regarding the importance of footballers being developed from athletes (as I understand it; Walcott got into football late and was a sprinter/athlete before) or conditioned from a young age to be technically sound (Fabregas is of the Barcelona mould of brilliant technical ability in particular the basics and relies on this more than speed or pure athletic abilities like walcott)? Obviously, the cop out answer is both, but both players epitomise the opposites for Arsenal so is an interesting discussion....would Cesc give up some of his technical ability for more pace or vice versa...
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Comment number 10.
At 18th Nov 2010, adyp28 wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 11.
At 18th Nov 2010, Hesperian wrote:Interesting but as an athlete myself, just one point:
Even the tiniest bit of research would have shown you that Theo Walcott didn't run 10.5 when he was 14. The very page that you have linked to yourself shows that he ran 11.52. A huge difference. I won't even start on the glaring inaccuracies on that page either but then the editorial credentials of the 'journalism' on there are not difficult to question either.
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Comment number 12.
At 18th Nov 2010, usedtobefast wrote:Would have loved to have been there, Lewis is a legend and I loved listening to Linford talk about his rivalry with Lewis and why he refused to shake hands. Amazing stuff.
Anyway what about:
Glenn Lidl (little)
Ian Carpet Wright
Gap Stam
If I think of any more I'll be back on.
Love
Sandy Houlaghan
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Comment number 13.
At 18th Nov 2010, ForestFlyerFC wrote:Great blog again
Good to see a mixture of people at these events in this country not just footballers
and i'd go for Dele aldibola!
could also go for new york deli adebola
the mans a shop football managers dream!
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Comment number 14.
At 18th Nov 2010, Mace254 wrote:what about:
Tony Coton Traders
Nigel Martins
Ludek Miklcost co
Mark Fish n Chippy
Tim Muffin Breacker
thats it im done
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Comment number 15.
At 18th Nov 2010, Gavelaa wrote:Steve WaterStones
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Comment number 16.
At 18th Nov 2010, Balemein wrote:Ryman Pavlyuchenko
Didier SuperDrogba
DFSteban Cambiasso
Karen Millenko Acimovic
Beniot Esso-Ekoto
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Comment number 17.
At 18th Nov 2010, chrispaz wrote:Henning Berg-er King
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Comment number 18.
At 18th Nov 2010, howstrange2 wrote:The article you link to says Walcott ran 11.5s, not 10.5s.
10.5s at 16 year-old is incredibly quick, he'd be one of the best in the world.
11.5 is quick but not that special for a good sprinter; I'd be interested to see what he can run now through.
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Comment number 19.
At 18th Nov 2010, jellywobble wrote:I do love these themed starting XIs, Dan....these are my 2-penneth-worth:
Deon Burtons
Johnny Evans
H Jloyd Samuels
Matt Holland & Adam Barrett (Southend captain?!)
Kenwynne Jones the Bootmaker
Jerome Thomas Cook
Tony Adams,
and can't believe you missed Laura Ashley Cole out.....
Wish I had been in Niketown to meet Carl Lewis, he was just incredible in his hey-day, he just seemed to float across the track much like Usain Bolt does these days. Hope Didier Drogba uses that to motivate himself and get over the malaria as Chelsea are relying on him to step up yet again after last weekend's result! Think Theo's a great prospect and should be given a starting role up front while van Persie's out injured. He needs to play regularly and build up confidence - he's a striker, not a bit-part impact-sub winger.
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Comment number 20.
At 18th Nov 2010, adyp28 wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 21.
At 18th Nov 2010, san2012 wrote:Good blog young sir... Although I must say, that picture of you interviewing Radcliffe etc, looks like some Jeremy Kyle type programme (other trashy, chav-filled programmes are available)!
Chicken fajitas and fruit kebabs...I'm not sure free food could get much better than that!
Well done on the cricket ball throw by the way, certainly up there with the great sporting achievements of the country...although all hope of recognition for your talent was spectacularly blown away the other week with that kick of a football at West Ham (I think)....
If your current career ever came to a premature end, would you consider going on a certain jungle based TV show?
# 11....No-one cares.
Samassi Abou
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Comment number 22.
At 18th Nov 2010, Rickytickytavi wrote:Hisperian... it clearly says he was 16 when he ran 10.5. Don't pick on inaccuracies when you clearly failed to read the article properly.
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Comment number 23.
At 18th Nov 2010, Gussie Finknottle wrote:I see nothing in that link which says anything about Walcott running 10.5 as a 16-year-old. It says he ran 11.52 as a 14-year-old, which though impressive is not quite the same.
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Comment number 24.
At 18th Nov 2010, adyp28 wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 25.
At 18th Nov 2010, Bulltemp wrote:Subway-n Rooney
dietmar berba-topps tiles
rivaldo island, winner of the P C World cup
frankie fredricks
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Comment number 26.
At 18th Nov 2010, Duncan wrote:volavents surely are the food of kings, no self respecting buffet should be without the little pastry crowns.
Jeremey (Ar)Goss
Vanilla Ice
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Comment number 27.
At 18th Nov 2010, Hesperian wrote:Rickytickytavi
Firstly: it's 'Hesperian'.
Secondly: Where does it say that? In THIS article? Yes, I saw that. That's what I was correcting as the link it takes us to (for corroboration) states 11.52.
England_TheGreatEscape
Guess you're the winner.
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Comment number 28.
At 18th Nov 2010, Bulltemp wrote:Gregs the baker Halford-s
that's a buy one get one free!!
Roger bannister
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Comment number 29.
At 18th Nov 2010, Ron_Arne_Riise wrote:I would say that the article you linked, with regards to Theo's supposed 10.5 clocking for 100m does actually say 11.5s ish is the time he ran it in - which sounds a bit more reasonable. To run 10.5s at 16 - I think a lot of people who are not fans of athletics (I am a football fan AND an athletics fan) don't realise how seriously quick that is. Especially when put into context. Sorry to be picky but it is a genuine point!
as for # 20 - there are a lot of athletics fans around and athletes, who do care. So such an arrogant/ignorant comment really isn't necessary I'd say. Fair enough have an opinion, by all means, but no need to be like that. If you were an athlete who trained very hard to get where you are, and someone acted like that to you I don't think you would be too happy...
Really good article though, great to see a lot of different sports stars mixing/giving interviews together and having a laugh - good mutual respect there. Also it proves just because footballers get paid the most and have more celebrity status, doesn't mean they can't be starstruck/in awe of other great sportspeople! I assume there is footage around of your interviews aside from the football focus ones?
I am surprised you didn't mention Andy Turner, I would have expected him to be there after the great year he has had! Harry double A is also sponsored by Nike I believe.
P.S. loving the shop XI! great fun
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Comment number 30.
At 18th Nov 2010, scooby81 wrote:Davide Somma-field
Steve Morrisons
Greggs-orz Rasiak
PRI-mark Hughes
Danny Wait-ROSE
Tesco-leon Lescott
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Comment number 31.
At 18th Nov 2010, Windsor Horne Lockwood III wrote:Danny Boy
Yet another boastful & smug blog about how great your life is and how you're better than everyone else. We get it, you get paid money to meet people who get paid money for playing a sport. I met someone on the train the other day who looked like Joey Ramone's long-lost sister. Shall I write a blog about that? Perhaps I shall.
Love from Lord Windsor
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Comment number 32.
At 18th Nov 2010, Zebtheowl wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 33.
At 18th Nov 2010, Surreybloke wrote:I think with the pace issue, its probably more important to have footballers able to kick on, like a runner in the home straight, and suddenly burst past the defender/marker. Someone who can only run at one speed is going to be less effective than someone who can put on a burst and sprint clear.
Walcott could really do with having a whole season without injury so that he can play match after match and properly develop. He already seems to be showing a greater prowess in front of goal as evidenced by the number of goals he has scored this season. If he isn't going to be an out and out striker, then he needs to improve his crossing. He could be a Pires type player if he did, although it maybe seems more likely that he would be in the Henry mode. Interesting that he has been looking at Drogba as well now.
He seems to be a mature guy, unlike many, so the future is bright for him as he seems to know what he needs to do, and is doing the work to try and get there.
Another multi-event athlete, who moved from athletics to rugby union was the winger who played for Wales - Nigel Walker. A good example of someone with lots of pace who was able to apply it in another sport.
#1 Fastest Rugby Player Toderai Chavanga
10.27 seconds 100m - ran for Zimbabwe, played rugby for the Springboks.
Imagine trying to catch him and stop him scoring!
Inspector Chisholm
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Comment number 34.
At 18th Nov 2010, LordSirSteveTreacle wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 35.
At 18th Nov 2010, Eric Morecambe wrote:Dan?
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Comment number 36.
At 18th Nov 2010, Papa Shango wrote:#35
Partridge?
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Comment number 37.
At 18th Nov 2010, arrgeekay wrote:volovants? shome mishtake shurely? are you referring to vol-au-vents?
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Comment number 38.
At 18th Nov 2010, jacksofbuxton wrote:Mick Boundary Mills
Russell and Dorrell Osman
Matelan Holland
Paul Cooper used to wear glasses in goal,he was a spec saver.
Allan Clarkes
Taribo Westfield shopping centre
Ian Kilminster
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Comment number 39.
At 18th Nov 2010, san2012 wrote:Hesperian...
You've made my day...what do I win?
Although, I sense sarcasm and resentment in your comment....Let's be friends?
P.Sherman, 42 Wallaby Way, Sydney
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Comment number 40.
At 18th Nov 2010, adyp28 wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 41.
At 18th Nov 2010, adyp28 wrote:"Johnson was found to test positive for the anabolic steroid Stanozolol. Because of this, he was stripped of his medal. His medal was given to his rival Carl Lewis, who later on admitted to using steroids as well, but was not stripped of his medals."
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Comment number 42.
At 18th Nov 2010, Dan Walker wrote:Hello there blog dudes
Just on the way back to London from Grimsby where we've been filming for next week's show. ÌýAll will become clear on next week's blog.
Tomefccam #1 I seem to remember that David Hirst hit the hardest shot somewhere and i have vague recollections that footballers used to race against each other on tele. ÌýBizarrely, Sol Campbell is meant to be a bit of a speed merchant as well.
Ecasino27 #3 Rio Ferdinand is a very nice man and Karl Henry was a great laugh earlier this season. ÌýBest not mention the bad ones... Might have to go and see one next week.
mikey #5 the occasional freebie does sometimes reach my door. ÌýNot seen the David James stuff yet but hopefully he will be as honest as ever.
Myvoiceinyrhead #6 I think he will be moved there. ÌýWenger is very keen on using him through the middle and that stupid pace will be very handy.
Orcking #7 what a great story!Ìý
Hesperian #11 I am not responsible for the links in piece pal and you are right about the 10.5 thing. ÌýI think that is a typo and i will get it changed.
England_thegreatescape #21 I know what you mean about the Kyle style. ÌýYou're right about the food combo... legendary.
DDsmart #26 I'm with you on the volovant front... Top drawer.
Ron_Arne_riise #29 it is a fair point bro but, like i said, i don't insert the links into the blog. ÌýThat one might be more of a hindrance than a help. Glad you enjoyed the rest of the article.
Windsor Horne Lockwood III #31 what an odd post! I am sorry this gets under your skin but the whole point of these is to give you an insight into my job. ÌýI suggest you go and read something else or work on your own blog but, as Zebtheowl #31 points out, I'm not sure your rage fuelled rants will go down well with the punters.
If it makes you feel any better, next week's blog is about our trip to Cleethorpes. ÌýI asked Obama, Paul McCartney and the Dalai Lama to come along but they are all going out for a meal with Joey Ramone.
Steve Treacle #34 answers 1) no - good cynicism undertones, 2) no and 3) sadly not.
Well done everyone. ÌýKeep them coming and thanks for all the comments so far.
Vanessa Feltz
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Comment number 43.
At 18th Nov 2010, Alinem wrote:DimiJar Berbershow
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Comment number 44.
At 18th Nov 2010, Surreybloke wrote:Whoever adyp28 is, he's certainly keeping the moderator's busy!
I'm sure its all in the best possible taste.
Kenny Everett
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Comment number 45.
At 18th Nov 2010, Dan Walker wrote:adyp28
Come on son, try again. I'd like to know what keeps annoying the moderator.
Arch Duke Ferdinand
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Comment number 46.
At 18th Nov 2010, Luke Giles wrote:Dan, you brighten up my Thursdays. The afternoons go so much quicker when your trying to think of funny football XIs. So to kick me off
Manager -ToysRGus Poyet
Games to be reffed by - Phones4Uriah Rennie
Players -
Steven Carr-phone Warehouse
Matalandon Donovan
John Lewis Boa Morte
La Senza Diarra
Suits Younes Kaboul
Getting desperate now - Jobi & Q McAnuff & David KFCman
Plus they'd need someone to clean their Boots.
Sandi Toksvig
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Comment number 47.
At 18th Nov 2010, Dan Walker wrote:Rest easy one and all. The 10.5 has been changed to 11.5.
Calvin Smith
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Comment number 48.
At 18th Nov 2010, Martin wrote:What a waste of time...Adidas is the best sportswear company in the world and Daley Thompson's achievements (he held every title in the world for 11 years including 2 Olympic Gold medals) are far superior to the second greatest athlete in the world,
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Comment number 49.
At 18th Nov 2010, Martin wrote:oh and Daley never took drugs of any kind...so why did Lewis not loose his medals ...because he was ...say no more Daley told us in 1984 !!!!!
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Comment number 50.
At 18th Nov 2010, Martin wrote:adyp28 has got it right, and why hasn't our greatest athlete got his knighthood...politics the establishment is so sad
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Comment number 51.
At 18th Nov 2010, Windsor Horne Lockwood III wrote:Thanks Dan, I'm glad you read my rant. The good lady wife thinks it's a marvelous idea that I set up my own blog. She's a big fan of yours, you know.
As for the one who calls himself zebtheowl; clearly I touched a nerve with you, for which I don't apologise - evidently you exist only to brown-nose. What's the matter, Dan Walker your boyfriend? Do you love him? Do you want to hold hands with him and kiss him on the lips?
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Comment number 52.
At 18th Nov 2010, Luke Giles wrote:Windsor Horne Lockwood III wrote:
Do you love him? Do you want to hold hands with him and kiss him on the lips?
________________________________________
Doesn't everyone? I thought that's why we're all here?
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Comment number 53.
At 18th Nov 2010, Christopher Gill wrote:Anyone had Malcolm McDonalds yet??
Great blog shame about the petty ones that have to moan about anything & everything, come on people smile it might never happen : )
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Comment number 54.
At 18th Nov 2010, Rob04 wrote:Why are you doing a focus article on Carl Lewis - stimulant user but 'never banned' Next it'll be Linford Christie eh!?!
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Comment number 55.
At 18th Nov 2010, san2012 wrote:Personally I think the biggest disgrace is how Brucey has yet to be knighted...then again, Sir Cliff has...
....And there you have it, the clever/dumb balance is restored.
Martin seems to have a big problem with Carl Lewis and Nike and an over-awing sense of love towards Daley Thompson and Adidas....
I mean, I like Carl Lewis and Nike, yet I also like Daley Thompson and Adidas, but which one is better?!
Jackie Moon
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Comment number 56.
At 18th Nov 2010, Christopher Gill wrote:Hardest shot Alex maybe?
Fastest player must be Theo he's like greased lightning..
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Comment number 57.
At 18th Nov 2010, Christopher Gill wrote:Jackie Moon wrote, I mean, I like Carl Lewis and Nike, yet I also like Daley Thompson and Adidas, but which one is better?!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------There's only one way to find out.....FIGHT!!
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Comment number 58.
At 18th Nov 2010, Journeyman wrote:well this is exactly what im in the market for
Lee Clarkes
Roy Nisa-ndoah
Warren Burtons
Andy O'Briens
Marlon Burger King
Hamit Altintopman
River Island Plate
Alessandro Coscocurta
Stern John Lewis
Laura Mike Ashley
James Beatties
HMViera
Kris Boyes
TJ Lee Hughes
Michael Selfbridges
Pat Riceland
Harrods Redknapp
David Games Workshop
Shefki Gucci
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Comment number 59.
At 18th Nov 2010, James wrote:Greg Halfords
Richard F.Hinds
Hugo Bossallega
Li Tie Rack
Dan - can we have your thoughts on what went down at the high courts with SWFC yesterday? i know you have previouslymentioned you have ties with the club being a student in sheffield. Personally speaking, i think we got off lightly, and we have no more second chances, business must be done now.
UTO
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Comment number 60.
At 18th Nov 2010, Andrew wrote:Mark Brighthouse
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Comment number 61.
At 18th Nov 2010, Malcolm wrote:This would have been a better blog had Dan omitted the nonsense about cricket ball throwing, Kevin Keegan's Patricks etc.
As for footballers being fast ...... they don't even compare to the slowest international sprinters. They're just a bunch of spoilt, hugely overpaid, undertrained prima donnas - except Gareth Bale! (UK Athletics Level 4 Coach).
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Comment number 62.
At 18th Nov 2010, treasureislanddizzy wrote:How about...
Leighton eBaynes
Fred Perry Suckling
Alessandro Lacoste-ocurta
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Comment number 63.
At 18th Nov 2010, SAF_is_GOD wrote:thanks #58 olymans for taking hamit altintopman off the tip of my tongue!
how about...
stephen carrphone warehouse
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Comment number 64.
At 18th Nov 2010, Luke Giles wrote:#63 Beat you to it I'm afraid (see #46)
Casper The Friendly Ghost
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Comment number 65.
At 18th Nov 2010, Boyo wrote:Your blogs are always entertaining and interesting.
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Comment number 66.
At 18th Nov 2010, HotHeadWazza wrote:Interesting how all these London rivals can be so friendly towards each other when they're off the pitch.
Danny WaitRose (yes i know its amazing)
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Comment number 67.
At 18th Nov 2010, HotHeadWazza wrote:ahhh someone beat me to it..
Leighton Baines-bury's
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Comment number 68.
At 18th Nov 2010, Marco 4 - Eamus Catuli - Oh God make it stop wrote:I've heard very good things about the speed of Chris Kiwomya's son Alex, who is bubbling under with one of the big teams, not sure which.
As for the hardest shot, Ritchie Humphries was my assumption.
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Comment number 69.
At 18th Nov 2010, Dan Walker wrote:Hello again. Now rocking the train from Doncaster to London.
Windsor Horne Lockwood III #51 you've got some issues there fella
Can I just point out to everyone a few things...
1) I am not responsible for the fact that Daley Thompson is not a knight (or Brucey)
2) I am not responsible for Carl Lewis being voted athlete of the century and, before anyone points the finger...
3) I was not the 3rd gunman on the grassy knoll
James #59 it's strange how financial regulations don't seem to apply to football clubs. That said, I really don't want SWFC to go under and hopefully the 28 days will be enough time to solve the issue. The problem is the club has some deep rooted problems that go back a long way.
Malcolm #61 how dare you slate the keegan Patricks! Full marks for the rant.
Glad you are enjoying the blog (most of you) and your comments are very much appreciated.
Mary DeckerÌý
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Comment number 70.
At 18th Nov 2010, Anaemic_Paper wrote:Great Blog Dan, I've often wondered what it's like when famous sportsmen meet each other.
For those questions posed about hardest shot - I believe David Hirst was the first player to hit a shot over 100mph (hit the bar). Steven Reid scored a goal against Wigan that was clocked at 191 kmph according to some sources which I haven't checked :s
Brazilian interview? Ronaldo?
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Comment number 71.
At 18th Nov 2010, Surreybloke wrote:#69 Dan
Did you shoot the deputy though? I know who shot the sheriff.
Zola Budd
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Comment number 72.
At 18th Nov 2010, SAF_is_GOD wrote:lol thanks #64...i will be back with one!
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Comment number 73.
At 18th Nov 2010, Andy Connor wrote:Well he was correct, I didnt think it was gonna work, but you know what, it did.
Not as dumb as he looks, dont get me wrong he is still a slice of extra mature cheddar away from a perfect cream cracker, but not as dumb as he looks.
His recipes are worth looking at too ill tell you that for nothing.
Ill also tell you his guinea pig has amazing eyelashes but unfortunately that just cost you £4.20 but its okay, you have the typical 28 day payment period.
Dan, if your out and about and you see something and think, wow if I had a really awkward and sometimes pretentious sister I would buy her that for xmas then let me know.
Hey guess what I did last week?
Ill sing you a song to give you a clue
I own a tank top
I own a tank top
I own a tank top
I own a taaaank topp
Henry the 18th
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Comment number 74.
At 18th Nov 2010, SAF_is_GOD wrote:tommy WH Smith
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Comment number 75.
At 18th Nov 2010, Surreybloke wrote:#74
I'd refer you to #4...
Try again ;-)
Superhans
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Comment number 76.
At 18th Nov 2010, Luke Giles wrote:lol keep going SAF, you'll get one soon!
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Comment number 77.
At 18th Nov 2010, SAF_is_GOD wrote:DAMN!!!
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Comment number 78.
At 18th Nov 2010, SAF_is_GOD wrote:ferNANDOS Torres...
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Comment number 79.
At 18th Nov 2010, aledgog wrote:Dan, a brilliant blog as always, and the punters are on great form with the shop XI. It's cheered me up after a bad day at work in the psychiatric hospital - one of our patients escaped...he calls himself Windsor Horne Lockwood III, and has a rare syndrome where he goes around making provocative comments to wind up innocent members of the public (it's called a McNulty complex...)
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Comment number 80.
At 18th Nov 2010, Holloway2Holland wrote:Good stuff Dan.
Here's a list I found of the fastest Pl players over 100m;
"1. Theo Walcott, Arsenal - 36,6 km/t
2. Sol Campbell - 36,2 km/t
3. Fernando Torres, Liverpool - 35,8 km/t
3. Didier Drogba, Chelsea - 35,8 km/t
5. Nicolas Anelka, Chelsea - 35,5 km/t
5. Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal - 35,5 km/t
5. Ashley Cole, Chelsea - 35,5 km/t
8. Gaël Clichy, Arsenal - 35,1 km/t
8. Wayne Rooney, Manchester United - 35,1 km/t
9. Steven Gerrard, Liverpool - 34,8 km/t
9. Robinho, Manchester City - 34,8 km/t"
Not sure how accurate it is.
Terry Butcher
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Comment number 81.
At 18th Nov 2010, JoC wrote:Loving the blog and comments as usual Dan. Good to see you polish off the volovants at Nike Town. Hope you got the famous sportstars to sign your yellow ball?
How are your early season blog predictions going? Seem to remember one of mine was you'll end up presenting SCORE...ooo-err!!
#80 so what's 36,6 km/t over 100m then?
Marius Téscostor
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Comment number 82.
At 18th Nov 2010, Holloway2Holland wrote:JoC.
If I had to guess I'd say the t was for topspeed.
Like I said, I just found it with a google search and have no idea of it's accuracy.
K Mart-in Keown
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Comment number 83.
At 18th Nov 2010, smellslikesalmon wrote:Hardest shot must be Alex, he nearly destroyed the goal with that recent free kick.
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Comment number 84.
At 18th Nov 2010, Surreybloke wrote:Re: Hardest shots
I think that got covered for the Sheffield Wednesday FF visit blog as I remember looking at stuff back then sometime..
This is off t'internet dating back three years ago...
1) David Hirst - 114mph (for Sheffield Wednesday @ Arsenal on September 16 1996)
2) David Beckham - 97.9mph (for Man Utd v Chelsea on February 22 1997)
3) David Trezeguet - 96mph (for Monaco @ Man Utd on March 19 1998)
I fancy some CHiPs for dinner...
Officer Francis (Frank) Llewelyn "Ponch" Poncherello
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Comment number 85.
At 18th Nov 2010, ed allen wrote:great entry as usual.
rui costa cutter
Ryan Greggs
Lee DIXONS
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Comment number 86.
At 18th Nov 2010, cescfagregasboots wrote:Dan first post of mine so if you fail to respond and i'll switch of the TV whenever you're on - I live in canada so thats rare but still.
Quick question about Walcott - how intelligent is he?
The reason I ask is that Just seen an interview he gave (maybe to a north american broadcaster) about englands 2018 world cup bid. He said
'I think we should get it because it seems like ages since we last had it'
It seems? That suggests that either a) he vaguely remembers it and was therefore alive when we last had it (he wasn't) or alternatively b) he doesn't actually know when we last had it - either way not great.
Also did you see the huddle that Arsenal had after ramseys leg break at stoke, everyone was using it as a chance to come together and show solidarity for the unfortunate player whereas he got it wrong, had a massive grin on his face and was about to start jumping up and down like you do after winning the fa cup, presumably spraying champagne was next.
So not that quick of a question really (10.5 or 11.5secs perhaps) but would you say that he is more or less intelligent than a packet of crisps?
I don't understand the name at the bottom of the comments so I will go with
Tessa Sanderson
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Comment number 87.
At 18th Nov 2010, VelvetAndroid wrote:^ OK Surreybloke123, that's the hardest-shooting Davids in football covered, but what about all the other players not sharing this most wondrous of names? Don't they deserve Top 3s of their own too...??
Don't know about shop-named footballers, but near where I live there were for years until very recently (when the latter moved) adjacent branches of Boots and Game, which seems an apposite connection... And opposite is the Early Learning Centre, which I believe is the level of education most footballers stop at.
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Comment number 88.
At 18th Nov 2010, Elliott Jones wrote:During my time at Three Bridges Middle we were briefed on your 'long throw' record and it acted as a source of motivation before hitting the field; however, I must state that an asterisk should stand next to your tally as we were forced to lob a dusty tennis ball. I'm sure that this enhanced equipment obliterated your efforts and we probably received additional stars thanks to the weight advantage.
I've made a formal inquiry with the Hastings, Chichester, and Lewes board of directors to see if we can reinstate you as the 'Carl Lewis' of TBM.
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Comment number 89.
At 18th Nov 2010, cescfagregasboots wrote:Holloway2Holland
Sol Campbell & Cesc Fabregas may well be quicker than Neil Ruddock &
Matt Le Tissier but I very doubt that they are anyway near Cole and Clichy.
As for hardest shot I too saw Burrows on a programme once years ago along and also recall Dave Challinor having the longest throw (apparently some UK teacher has now beaten him though).
As for high street shops
Bank of (Jason) Scotland
(Dean) Austin Reed
Cheers
Ibrahima Bakayoko
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Comment number 90.
At 18th Nov 2010, Surreybloke wrote:#87
I guess blokes called David must have a kick like the hind leg of a donkey!
Numbers 4 to 10 did include names other than David.
Eric Liddell
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Comment number 91.
At 18th Nov 2010, Windsor Horne Lockwood III wrote:Re Aledog - so if someone dares express an opinion which doesn't agree with sycophants like you they're considered mental are they? Try using that brain of yours before you type next time.
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Comment number 92.
At 18th Nov 2010, mcdelive wrote:FASTEST FOOTBALLER EVER IS manchester city and England footballer JOE HART. Watch this video to convince your self
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Comment number 93.
At 18th Nov 2010, Torres Is a Blue wrote:i'm a pirate!
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Comment number 94.
At 18th Nov 2010, WeMissYouSamHutchinson wrote:Am I the only one who's surprised that Theo only got 11.5 seconds as a 16 year old? I mean that's the kind of time that I'm getting but I wouldn't put myself anywhere near the same league as Theo.
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Comment number 95.
At 18th Nov 2010, Eric Morecambe wrote:...in a pear tree
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Comment number 96.
At 18th Nov 2010, adyp28 wrote:comment finally got published at the 4th attempt!! apparently mentioning a certain mr. lewis and the s-word in the same sentence can land the beeb in some hot water!
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Comment number 97.
At 19th Nov 2010, jacksofbuxton wrote:96. At 23:02pm on 18 Nov 2010, adyp28 wrote:
comment finally got published at the 4th attempt!! apparently mentioning a certain mr. lewis and the s-word in the same sentence can land the beeb in some hot water!
_______________________________________
Slow?
As for the hardest shot, takes some beating.
Arnold Muhren
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Comment number 98.
At 19th Nov 2010, jacksofbuxton wrote:96. At 23:02pm on 18 Nov 2010, adyp28 wrote:
comment finally got published at the 4th attempt!! apparently mentioning a certain mr. lewis and the s-word in the same sentence can land the beeb in some hot water!
________________________________________
Slow?
As for the hardest shot,John Metgod takes some beating.
Arnold Muhren
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Comment number 99.
At 19th Nov 2010, jacksofbuxton wrote:Apologies for the double posting,forgot to put the link in.
Frans Thyssen
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Comment number 100.
At 19th Nov 2010, Eric Morecambe wrote:Re-record, not fade away, re-record, not fade away, re-record, not fade away...
Dave Clifton
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